The Los Angeles Lakers have made a big move by hiring ESPN analyst JJ Redick as their new head coach, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Redick will be tasked with leading the team to a successful playoff run, following the departure of Darvin Ham.
With Redick at the helm, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is looking to prioritize the development of young players on the team, such as Austin Reaves and Max Christie. This focus on player development will likely extend to incoming rookies, as the Lakers have multiple picks in the upcoming 2024 NBA draft.
As the draft approaches, the Lakers currently hold the No. 17 overall pick and the No. 55 pick. One player who has been linked to the team in pre-draft rumors is Bronny James, a former guard from USC and the son of Lakers star LeBron James. Despite a mixed freshman season at USC, Bronny has showcased his athleticism and defensive potential, making him an intriguing prospect for the Lakers.
Another potential draft target for the Lakers is Colorado forward Tristan Da Silva. Although older than most draft prospects at 23 years old, Da Silva’s consistent shooting and versatility could make him a valuable addition to the team’s roster. His ability to contribute right away as a rookie could be appealing to the Lakers as they aim to build a competitive team around their veteran stars.
In addition to James and Da Silva, the Lakers could also consider adding Purdue center Zach Edey to bolster their frontcourt depth. Edey, a dominant shot-blocker with impressive scoring ability, could provide valuable rim protection and interior scoring for the team. His size and defensive skills make him an attractive option for the Lakers as they look to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
With a new head coach in JJ Redick and a focus on player development, the Lakers have some exciting draft targets to consider as they prepare for the 2024 NBA draft. Whether they prioritize young talent like Bronny James, experienced prospects like Tristan Da Silva, or dominant big men like Zach Edey, the team has an opportunity to add valuable pieces to their roster and build a competitive team for the future.